Managing Stress

The effects of emotional stress on the body

Many women face difficult challenges and responsibilities that may overlap or conflict, causing stress that can affect their health. Stress can arise out of difficulties at home, in relationships, and in the workplace. Family "well-being" includes stable relationships and the ability to fulfill essential roles in the home, child rearing values and practices, and the mental and physical health and development of every family member. Researchers are trying to determine which workplace conditions influence employees' experiences of conflict between work and family roles. Researchers also are studying the effects of job stress on spouses and on marriage, and how parents' working conditions may affect their parenting and their children.

Emotional stress can lead to the following:

High blood pressure

Increased susceptibility to substance abuse and illness

Less resistance to disease

Depression

Tips to reduce or manage the stress in your life:

Eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. A nutritious, well-balanced diet and exercise can keep your body fit and able to resist disease. Exercise also is an excellent way to elevate your mood.

Talk about your stressful situations with someone you trust. Sometimes, just talking about your problems and concerns can help you put them into perspective and give you insights into ways to deal with them.